ISLE OF WIGHT 0, ALTON 3

ALTON gave their best performance of the season to secure three precious points against Isle of Wight.

The visitors knew they faced a tough task against the side placed fourth in Hampshire 2, but were determined to make the trip worthwhile as they boarded the ferry to the island.

From the start, Alton pushed IoW back into their own half and good work from forwards Tom Singleton and Sam Juncker created early chances, with Juncker being denied by the keeper.

The energetic midfield of Richard Spicer, Jason Smith and Nigel Downing prevented the islanders getting into their stride, although they came close to taking the lead with a shot that hit the post.

Just before half-time, Alton’s sustained pressure finally paid off as Singleton found just enough room to fire off a shot that hit the target.

Alton made a dream start to the second half, doubling their advantage almost straight from the restart. The forward partnership again did the trick as Singleton slipped a quick ball through the legs of a defender to Juncker who snapped up the chance to score on his first-team debut.

Going two down did not sit well with Isle of Wight who fought desperately to get back into the game. Again and again, they attacked, only to be repulsed by Alton who threw their bodies at everything.

With ten minutes to go, it was young newcomer Juncker who made sure for Alton, finishing off a counter-attack with a shot that looped over the keeper.

Alton ran down the clock and, at the final whistle, celebrated only their second win of the season.

Gosport, currently third from bottom, one place below Alton, visit Amery Hill this Saturday.